What it is: An HDL cholesterol test measures high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, often called "good" cholesterol, as part of a lipid panel.
Why it's ordered: Ordered as part of routine or follow-up cardiovascular risk screening, typically alongside LDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides.
What it detects: HDL carries excess cholesterol from the bloodstream back to the liver for clearance (reverse cholesterol transport), so higher HDL is generally associated with lower cardiovascular risk.
Collection & prep: A standard blood draw from a vein in the arm, usually as part of a lipid panel. Some labs require 9–12 hours of fasting beforehand, though non-fasting lipid panels are increasingly used.
Results:
Above 60 mg/dL – considered protective against cardiovascular disease
Below 40 mg/dL (men) / 50 mg/dL (women) – considered low and a cardiovascular risk factor
Possible complications of low HDL: Low HDL combined with high LDL or triglycerides raises cardiovascular risk; providers weigh HDL alongside the full lipid panel and other risk factors rather than in isolation.
Statements made in the Clinical Manual have not been evaluated by the FDA. The products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
